How to Best Take Care and Store Your Winter Clothes!

Storing winter clothes is an important part of making sure your wardrobe lasts for years to come. With the right laundry detergent and storage methods, you can keep your winter clothes looking new for longer, saving time and money in the long run. How is storage related to detergent in any way? We're here to answer that question and some more! 

Today, we'll discuss tips on how to store winter clothes properly so that they stay protected from damage caused by pests or moisture. We'll also share some advice on what laundry detergents work best when storing clothing during the colder months.

Tips on How to Store Winter Clothes Properly

When it comes to storing winter clothes, there are a few simple steps you can take to make sure they stay protected from damage. By following these tips and using the right laundry detergent, your winter wardrobe will be in great shape when the cold weather arrives! 

Here are some helpful tips on how to store winter clothes properly: 

1. Use airtight containers

Airtight containers work best for items like sweaters or jackets that need extra protection from moisture or pests. Look for plastic bins with tight-fitting lids or vacuum-sealed bags that keep out dust and bugs.  Make sure to clean each item before putting them into storage so no dirt is left behind. 

2. Hang garments up

If space allows, hang heavier items such as coats and suits on hangers inside an armoire or closet until needed again in colder months. This will help preserve their shape and keep fabric fibers intact over time.  Be sure not to cram too many items together on one hanger as this could cause stretching of delicate fabrics like woolen sweaters or velvet dresses down the line  

3. Use cedar blocks

Cedar blocks emit a natural scent that helps repel moths while also absorbing excess moisture in the air. Place a few blocks in each container or closet and replace them every few months to maintain their effectiveness  

4. Use fabric softener sheets

Fabric softener sheets are an easy and affordable way to keep clothes smelling fresh while in storage. Simply tuck one sheet into each drawer or bin with winter items and replace when needed throughout the season. 

What Laundry Detergent is Best When Storing Clothes?

Not all detergents are created equal – especially when it comes to storing winter clothes. Liquid detergents are usually best for washing delicate fabrics like wool or cashmere and can be gentler on clothing fibers than powder-based formulas. 

Plus, liquid detergents don’t leave any residue that could attract pests or damage fabrics over time. 

Here is a breakdown of the different kinds of laundry detergents you should use when storing winter clothes: 

1. Mild liquid

Look for mild, plant-based laundry detergents that are free of dyes, fragrances, and harsh chemicals. These formulas are designed to be gentle on delicate fabrics like wool or cashmere and won't leave any residue on clothing. 

2. Liquid fabric softeners

A mild liquid fabric softener can help protect clothes from static electricity while also leaving them smelling fresh in storage. Just be sure to use sparingly as too much can weigh down the fibers in delicate items like silk or chiffon scarves. 

3. Wool-specific detergent

If you have a lot of wool sweaters to store for winter, it's worth investing in a specific wool-safe detergent. These formulas are specially formulated for washing woolen garments and help prevent excess shrinkage when laundering. 

By using the right detergent and following these simple storage tips, your winter wardrobe will be in great shape by the time cold weather arrives! 

Temperature Control 

Another important things to consider is temperature control. Too much heat or cold can cause permanent damage to delicate fabrics like wool or cashmere and can also attract pests that could ruin your favorite garments over time. Here are some tips on how to maintain optimal temperatures when storing winter clothing: 

1. Keep rooms cool

If possible, store winter items in a cool room that maintains an average temperature between 55°F and 70°F throughout the year. This will help protect delicate fibers from excessive heat and prevent pests from invading your clothing. 

2. Use air conditioning

If the room where you plan to store winter clothes doesn't have central air, consider using a portable AC unit to keep things cool. Make sure the temperature regulator is set between 55°F and 70°F for optimal protection of your garments. 

3. Invest in insulation

For extra protection, invest in high-quality insulation material such as foam boards or spray foam that can be used to line closets or other storage areas. This will help ensure that temperatures stay consistent and protect delicate fabrics from extreme heat or cold no matter what season it is outside.  

Mothball Use 

Mothballs can be an effective way of protecting your winter wardrobe from moths and other pests while it's in storage. However, if used improperly, they can cause damage to fabrics or even emit toxic fumes that are hazardous to your health. Here is what you need to know about using mothballs correctly for clothing storage: 

1. Use only when necessary

Mothball use should be limited only to areas where there is a high risk of pest infestation. If you notice any signs of insect activity around your stored items, consider using mothballs as a last resort. 

2. Choose your product carefully

If you do decide to use mothballs be sure to select a product that is specifically labeled for clothing storage. These products contain insecticide that is safe for fabrics and also emit less toxic fumes than traditional mothballs. 

3. Place them properly

When placing mothballs in closets or other storage areas, make sure they are out of the reach of children or pets and never put them directly on clothes or other fabrics. Additionally, be sure to leave plenty of room around each ball so their fumes can circulate freely and effectively repel insects. 

Prevention Strategies 

In addition to temperature control, there are other methods of preventing damage to your winter wardrobe when it's in storage. Here are some simple steps you can take to help keep your clothes safe and sound until you're ready to wear them again: 

1. Control humidity

High levels of humidity can encourage mold growth on fabrics and weaken fragile fibers over time. To combat this, invest in a dehumidifier or use desiccant packs inside closets and other storage areas that contain delicate garments. 

2. Avoid direct sunlight exposure

Direct sunlight can cause premature fading and discoloration of fabrics. If possible, choose a storage area that is not exposed to direct sunlight or use blackout curtains or blinds in the space to block the sun's rays. 

3. Use natural repellents

You can also deter pests from invading your winter wardrobe with natural products such as cedar chips, lavender sachets, or peppermint oil. Place these items around closets and drawers to keep insects away. 

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your winter clothes remain in perfect condition until it's time for them to make their debut! 

Clean Regularly

Regular cleaning is essential for keeping your winter wardrobe looking its best and protecting it from damage while in storage. Here's what you need to know about pre-storage laundering: 

1. Frequency

Clothing items such as sweaters, coats, hats, and scarves should be washed or professionally dry-cleaned before putting them away in long-term storage. If they are heavily soiled or stained, consider spot-cleaning them before washing. 

2. Detergent

Choose a detergent specifically designed for delicate garments and avoid using fabric softeners, which can damage certain fabrics over time. Additionally, use a milder setting on the washing machine or choose the hand-wash cycle to ensure fabrics remain intact during cleaning. 

By following these simple steps, you can ensure your winter wardrobe remains in great condition until it's time for them to come out of storage! 

Storing winter clothing can be tricky, there's a lot of steps that go into it even before storing them, especially if you don't know what detergents to use, and the like. You can stick to what you already do, not improve on anything and just watch as the quality of your items degrade over time from poor practices.

You can get out there yourself, start experimenting with brands of detergents and other items that are supposed to make the process of storage and care of your winter wardrobe a lot easier, only to waste time and, money, and even fabrics over time till you find the perfect fit that keeps everything in top condition.

Or, you can let us help you and have us prepare your winter clothes for storage. OrangeBag is here to help make that process easier and less time-consuming. With our convenient laundry services, all your winter items will be cleaned with the best quality detergent so they look their best when it's time to take them out of storage. No matter how difficult storing winter clothes may seem, we are here to make sure everything looks great without having to worry about a thing!

Check out our services and bundles today, and schedule a pickup, Summer is coming in hot and it's best to prepare your winter wardrobe when the next chill season hits!